Atherton DUI Lawyer Case Review: MDMA Drug Driving and a Section 87 Work Licence
In shortIn this case review, Atherton DUI Lawyer Joshua Boorman explains an MDMA drug driving matter he handled at Atherton Magistrates Court on the Atherton Tablelands. Our client took MDMA at a bush doof the night before and was caught the next afternoon at a police alcohol and drug testing operation on the road out of the festival. We ran a section 87 work licence application with affidavits from our client and his employer. The court granted the work licence, with one month on the work licence and a $350 fine.
- Charge: driving with a relevant drug (MDMA) present in saliva, Queensland
- Caught at a random police testing operation outside a festival, the day after taking the drug
- Outcome: section 87 work licence granted, one month on the work licence, $350 fine
Queensland law · law checked 12 Nov 2026
What's on this page
Case overview
Joshua Boorman appeared at Atherton Magistrates Court, up the range on the Atherton Tablelands in Far North Queensland, for a young client charged with driving with a relevant drug present. The drug was MDMA, the active ingredient in ecstasy. It was found in his saliva at a roadside test.
Two things make this matter worth explaining. First, the way he was caught: not because of his driving, but because police had set up a testing operation on the only road out of a bush doof. Second, the way the case was run: our client could not do his job without a licence, so the focus was a section 87 work licence application built on affidavit evidence of job loss and severe financial hardship.
This Atherton Drug Driving Lawyer case review explains what happened, the law that applied, how the work licence application was put together and what the magistrate did. It also explains an important change: Queensland’s drug driving penalties increase for offences committed on or after 1 December 2026, so the minimum outcome in this matter would not be available for an offence committed after that date. For the court itself, see our Atherton DUI lawyers page. For drug driving charges generally, see QLD drug driving offences and penalties.
Watch the video: Atherton DUI Lawyer Joshua Boorman outside Atherton Magistrates Court
Joshua filmed this update outside Atherton Magistrates Court on the day of the hearing. Watch it first to hear the matter in his own words, then read on for the detail and the law. You can also watch it on YouTube.
What happened
Our client had gone to a bush doof, a dance music festival held out in the bush. The night before the incident, he took some ecstasy (MDMA). The next day the festival had lost its shine for his group, and he decided to leave a day earlier than he had planned.
At about 4:30pm the next day he drove out. About a kilometre down the road, on a one-way-in, one-way-out route, police had set up an alcohol and drug testing operation. He was stopped at random. As Joshua puts it in the video, it was a random RBT/RDT pull-over. It was not about his manner of driving. He was the sole occupant of the car.
He was open and honest with police. He told them he had taken ecstasy the night before. His saliva test was positive for MDMA, and he was charged with driving with a relevant drug present.
Police testing outside festivals
Joshua’s description of the testing operation is blunt: it’s just a numbers game for them
. When police set up outside a dance festival, he explains, they know they will catch some people who are over the alcohol limit or still have traces of drugs in their system.
That is lawful. The Queensland Government says police can pull drivers over for a random roadside saliva test, just as they can for a random breath test, and that drug tests can be done at random breath testing sites and at targeted drug testing sites. The roadside test looks for four relevant drugs: methylamphetamine (speed and ice), MDMA (the active ingredient in ecstasy), THC (the active ingredient in cannabis) and cocaine.
According to the Queensland Government, the roadside saliva test takes 3 to 5 minutes. If it is positive, a second saliva sample is taken. If that is also positive, the samples are sent for laboratory analysis. Whether a drug is detected depends on the type of drug, its quantity and quality, how often it is used and how long ago it was taken. There is no safe number of hours that applies to everyone.
A positive roadside test also brings an immediate 24-hour licence suspension. The Queensland Government says that if a driver is then charged with driving with a relevant drug present and has no other drug driving charge pending, the licence generally stays valid until the charge is dealt with in court. If a drug driving charge is already pending, the licence is suspended immediately until the court date.
The charge and the penalties
Queensland’s drink and drug driving offences are in section 79 of the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 (Qld) (the TORUM Act). Two drug charges are easy to confuse, and the difference matters a great deal for a work licence:
- Driving with a relevant drug present in blood or saliva — section 79(2AA). This was the charge in this matter (Joshua calls it a “drive with relevant drug” offence). It does not require proof of impairment. Presence is enough. For an offence committed before 1 December 2026, the maximum penalty is 14 penalty units (about $2,417 at the current value of $172.70 per unit) or 3 months’ imprisonment.
- Driving under the influence of liquor or a drug — section 79(1). This is the more serious charge, with a maximum of 40 penalty units or 9 months’ imprisonment for a first offence. A section 87 work licence is not available where the disqualification comes from a section 79(1) conviction (section 87(5)(da)).
Disqualification. A conviction under section 79(2AA) carries a mandatory licence disqualification. Under section 86(2), for a first offence in five years, the court must disqualify an open-licence holder for not less than 1 month and not more than 9 months. Learner, provisional and probationary licence holders, and unlicensed drivers, face 3 to 9 months. The court decides the period, having regard to the presence of the drug and the danger, real or potential, to the public in the circumstances (section 86(2A)). Higher ranges apply to repeat offences.
A work licence can lengthen the disqualification. When the court makes a section 87 work licence order, the maximum disqualification it can impose doubles (section 87(6)). The court must also treat the work licence order as a circumstance indicating the disqualification should be longer than it would otherwise be (section 87(6A)). That is the trade-off in every work licence application: the driver may be able to keep driving for work, but often for a longer period. It is one reason the result in this matter stands out.
For a wider overview of drug driving charges, see our QLD drug driving offences and penalties page.
The law changes on 1 December 2026
This matter was finalised under the law that applied before 1 December 2026. The Transport and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2026 (Qld) changes drug driving penalties from 1 December 2026. For driving with a relevant drug present, the amending Act:
- doubles the maximum fine from 14 to 28 penalty units (about $4,835.60 at the current value), with the 3-month maximum term of imprisonment unchanged;
- sets a minimum penalty of 7.5 penalty units (about $1,295.25) that the court must impose when it sentences with a fine and disqualification only (new section 78E, which has limited exceptions);
- raises the disqualification range for an open-licence first offence to not less than 2 months and not more than 9 months; and
- creates a new combined drink and drug driving offence (section 79(2AB)) for driving over an alcohol limit with a relevant drug also present. A section 87 work licence is not available for that combined offence.
Under section 20C(3) of the Acts Interpretation Act 1954 (Qld), an increase in a penalty applies only to an offence committed after the change commences. The date of the offence matters, not the date of the court hearing. For an offence committed on or after 1 December 2026, a one-month disqualification and a $350 fine like the result in this matter would be below the new minimums.
The section 87 work licence
A “work licence” in Queensland is a restricted licence ordered by the court under section 87 of the TORUM Act. If a person is convicted of an eligible section 79 offence and disqualified, the court can, on their application, order that they be issued with a restricted licence for the period of the disqualification. It does not cancel the disqualification. It allows limited driving during it.
Timing. The application must be made at the proceedings where the person is convicted and, where the court orders the disqualification, before it makes that order (section 87(2)–(3)). It is made in the approved form, Form F3181. The Queensland Government says to complete the form before the hearing and give it to the magistrate after the finding of guilt and before the disqualification is ordered. The court can require the applicant to give evidence and be cross-examined, and other witnesses can be called (section 87(2A)).
The test. Section 87(5)(a) says the court must not grant the application unless the applicant satisfies it that:
- they are a fit and proper person to hold a restricted licence, having regard to the safety of other road users and the public generally; and
- a refusal would cause extreme hardship to them or their family by depriving them of their means of earning their livelihood.
If the applicant is not self-employed, section 87(5A) requires an affidavit from the employer confirming the applicant would be deprived of their means of earning a living if the application is refused.
Who is excluded. Section 87(5) also bars an application in a range of situations, including where:
- the applicant’s provisional or open licence was suspended or cancelled, or they were disqualified, within the five years before the application (with listed exceptions, such as a 24-hour roadside suspension);
- the applicant has a drink or drug driving conviction (or a conviction under section 328A of the Criminal Code) within the previous five years;
- the offence was committed while the applicant was doing something directly connected with earning their living, or while driving a vehicle their licence did not authorise;
- the charge is driving under the influence (section 79(1)) or one of the zero-alcohol offences, or it is a section 79(2AA) charge against a driver who would have been on a zero-alcohol limit; or
- the applicant did not hold a Queensland provisional or open licence at the time of the offence and immediately before the disqualification.
What it allows. The order must restrict driving to circumstances directly connected with earning a livelihood. It can set the class of vehicle, the purpose and the times when driving is allowed (section 87(4)). The restricted licence can only be the same class as the licence held before the disqualification (section 87(4A)). The Queensland Government says restricted licence holders must carry the licence and court order, show them to police on request, follow every condition and keep a zero blood alcohol concentration while driving. Driving outside the conditions is an offence carrying up to 20 penalty units, cancels the restricted licence and adds a further 3 months’ disqualification (section 87(10)–(10A)). If work circumstances change later, section 88 allows an application to vary the conditions.
Our QLD restricted work licence page explains eligibility in more detail. Our earlier Beaudesert drug driving case review covers a different work licence matter, decided on its own facts.
How the application was built
Our client’s job was the centre of the application. As Joshua explains, he is on the road every single day, travelling to regional areas for commercial and government projects and installing audio-visual equipment. Without the ability to drive and carry his tools, equipment and supplies, he would not be able to work.
The material put in front of the magistrate included:
- A section 87 application, prepared for the sentence hearing.
- An affidavit from his employer, which section 87(5A) requires for an employee. It addressed the fact that he would lose his job if he lost his licence.
- An affidavit from our client, setting out that losing his job would cause him severe financial hardship.
- Evidence he was a fit and proper person: he had completed the Traffic Offenders Program, he had a very limited traffic record with only two minor traffic infringements, and he was a young driver who had held a licence for only a few years.
- Remorse. He had been open and honest with police from the roadside, and he showed remorse. His family came to court in support.
None of this made the offence go away. What it did was give the magistrate a full, sworn picture of what refusing a work licence would mean, and why our client could be trusted with one. Hardship evidence is most persuasive when it is specific: what the job involves, why driving is essential to it, and what happens to the person’s income if the licence goes.
The outcome
In Joshua’s words: We were successful in getting the work licence across the line.
The court:
- granted the section 87 work licence;
- left our client on the work licence for one month, which Joshua describes as the absolute minimum for this type of offence at the time; and
- imposed a $350 fine.
One month was the bottom of the 1-to-9-month disqualification range that applied to an open-licence first offence before 1 December 2026, even though a work licence order can push a disqualification longer. Our client could keep working, on the restricted conditions in the order, for that month.
This is one past result. It turned on the charge, our client’s licence and record, the affidavit evidence, the steps he had taken and the magistrate on the day. It is not a typical or expected outcome for anyone else, and, as explained above, the minimums are higher for offences committed on or after 1 December 2026. Every case is different. Past results don’t predict the outcome of any other matter.
Practical lessons from this Atherton drug driving case
- The next afternoon can still be too soon. In this matter the MDMA was taken the night before and was still detected in saliva around 4:30pm the next day. Sleep, time and feeling fine do not matter on a presence charge. What matters is whether the drug is still there.
- Festivals attract testing operations. Police set up where they expect results. A single road out of an event is an obvious place for a random testing site.
- The exact charge decides whether a work licence is possible. A section 79(2AA) presence charge can leave room for a section 87 application. A section 79(1) under-the-influence charge does not, and neither will the new combined drink and drug offence for offences from 1 December 2026.
- Eligibility comes first. Licence type, five-year history and whether the driver was driving for work at the time all need checking before anyone prepares affidavits.
- Affidavit evidence carries the hardship test. The court has to be satisfied of extreme hardship. For employees, an employer affidavit is a legal requirement, not an optional extra.
- Fit and proper is about the whole person. In this matter, the Traffic Offenders Program, a limited traffic record, honesty with police and genuine remorse all went to that question.
- The offence date decides which penalties apply. Offences from 1 December 2026 face higher minimums.
Talk to an Atherton Drug Driving Lawyer
If you have been charged with drug driving or drink driving and your matter is listed at Atherton Magistrates Court, Joshua and the Boorman Lawyers team can help you prepare, including any section 87 work licence application, and can represent you at court. Our Atherton DUI lawyers page explains how we work with clients at that court and where to check current sitting arrangements before a court date. For nearby courts, see our Mareeba DUI lawyers and Cairns DUI lawyers pages.
This case review is general information only, not legal advice for your situation. Every case is different, and results depend on the facts of each matter. Past results don’t predict the outcome of any other matter.
Call 1300 941 900 or make an enquiry about legal representation at boormanlawyers.com.au.
- Google review by Neal Singh.
“This man has gone above and beyond the past few years for me and has a genuine care for people. The work he does is a reflection of his character. Cannot thank you enough. You are the best at what you do.”
Neal Singh (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Rhonda Smith.
“I just wanted to say a massive Thank You to Joshua I was very happy and relieved at such a great outcome.It was a really stressful time leading up to the case and Joshua had the time and patience to literally walk me through the process …”
Rhonda Smith (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Tony Dempsey.
“Glad I went with Josh - got a much better than expected outcome and would definitely recommend!”
Tony Dempsey (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Ilenna J.
“I cannot recommend Boorman Lawyers highly enough. From the moment I engaged them, they guided me through the process with patience, professionalism, and genuine compassion. Even though I was entering a standard guilty plea, they took the …”
Ilenna J (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Daniel Elstone.
“Josh’s services were exceptional. Highly knowledgeable and a good down to earth person who was easy to talk to, which helped immensely during an experience that is not the norm myself. …”
Daniel Elstone (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Serah Phillips.
“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ My journey with Boorman Lawyers, and especially Josh, was a meeting point of …”
Serah Phillips (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Tom George.
“Thankyou to Mr Josh Boorman for being a professional and a very competent lawyer to get me through a tricky Dui charge.I am full of gratitude and admiration for Mr boorman representing me and I would definitely recommend him and his team to …”
Tom George (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Tom93.
“I was facing a high-range DUI and had no idea what to expect. Josh was calm, clear, and supportive from day one. He walked me through everything, always honest and never judgmental. …”
Tom93 (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Lozz Fountain.
“I would highly recommend Josh Boorman for any legal representation required. Josh took time to understand my situation thoroughly and offered clear, practical and honest advice that helped me make informed decisions. …”
Lozz Fountain (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Deran hal.
“I had an excellent experience with josh boorman. He was professional, knowledgeable, and truly cared about my case. From start to finish, josh boorman communicated clearly and kept me informed every step of the way. His expertise and …”
Deran hal (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Hamish Alger.
“Josh and the team at Boorman law were so professional & caring that I would recommend them to anyone. Besides the unbelievable outcome he was just so caring & invested. Thank you Josh. You are a truely good at what you do. Thank thank thank you.”
Hamish Alger (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by The Dude.
“Thank you Joshua Boorman for representing me in court. I received an incredible outcome and am forever thankful for your diligence and care. I can continue my life with joy. A lot of life lessons learnt. Can't thank you enough Sir.”
The Dude (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Ignatius Cirttenden.
“Don't let his man bun deceive you, Joshua Boorman is a master of the art of law fare. Not only does he have a dashing smile and gives the warmest hugs, Joshua is a magnificent representative and should be a first resort for legal issues.”
Ignatius Cirttenden (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Mark Dijakovic.
“It was an excellent service and I actually got stuck I couldn't get a medical and he helped me organize a medical in time for the court date, I highly recommend using borman lawyers it was a great service couldn't be any better”
Mark Dijakovic (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Thomas.
“Josh has been an excellent lawyer. Understanding my issue and taking time to help me. My problem was solved very smoothly.”
Thomas (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Amgalan Garmaev.
“Great professional job!”
Amgalan Garmaev (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by barun chhetri.
“Highly recommended……solicitor / lawyer Joshua Boorman in Australia Sydney. …… If the google showed 6 stars or more I would click all of them. …”
barun chhetri (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by P Singh.
“HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!!!!!! Josh is the best lawyer in Sydney. I was charged with Mid range PCA but josh …”
P Singh (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Jake Astwood.
“Josh is awesome to work with. Doesn’t mess about. Gives you solid advice and then delivers where it counts the most. In the court room. Down to earth and professional to a tee. Thanks Josh you went above and beyond and delivered an outcome far and above what was expected.”
Jake Astwood (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Yatharth Donde.
“I had been charged with mid range PCA. I am extremely grateful for Josh for all his help and bearing with me through everything! Results from the magistrate were quite surprising I got no conviction, no disqualification and no fine. I really recommend Josh for all the Traffic offence charges.”
Yatharth Donde (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Ribal Hosn.
“Readily available, clear communication, easy process! Extremely appreciative to Josh, we achieved the best outcome in court and it was such a smooth experience, highly recommended!!”
Ribal Hosn (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Michael.
“Josh was fantastic! Very professional and got me a great outcome. Would highly recommend”
Michael (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Wes M.
“Excellent firm, Josh did a fantastic job handing my case. Highly recommend !!”
Wes M (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by badrinathravikanti.
“Success is guaranteed,Highly recommended .”
badrinathravikanti (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Laurence Mead.
“Josh recently lead my DUI incident and I can only say great things about how Josh conducted himself throughout the whole process. Josh's down to earth demeanour but professional approach kept me calm knowing …”
Laurence Mead (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by David Forbes.
“Top bloke, great outcome. highly recommend”
David Forbes (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Eric Dickings.
“Honestly the best outcome i could have ever asked for, Thank you so much for all the help and advice. Absolute legend, i appreciate all the extra effort put in to help me out.”
Eric Dickings (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Bianca Debono.
“Mr Boorman is such a friendly and caring lawyer, he put so much time into my case and really was worth more money for his outstanding effort. He helped me to achieve an outcome I never expected; I got away with a 9-month good-behaviour bond …”
Bianca Debono (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Shanelle “Shanece” X.
“Highly recommended is an understatement!!! I was looking at another prison sentence for another high range DuI as I have bad traffic and criminal history and had been to prison in the past,this time I …”
Shanelle “Shanece” X (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Andee.
“Professional & nice service. He made everything clear from the beginning and was able to be contacted easily anytime. 5 stars! …”
Andee (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Conor Walters.
“I walked out of court with a much better result than I ever thought! Josh did so well and made everything super simple and easy! I was extremely scared but Ive walked out feeling a lot better! I would recommend to anyone and everyone! Worth every cent, I felt very supported!”
Conor Walters (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Chris Orpin.
“Best decision I could have made contacting Josh beyond a shadow of a doubt! I was looking at certain incarceration without representation, and Josh did exactly that......REPRESENT …”
Chris Orpin (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Andrew Dometaki.
“Josh worked hard to achieve a section 10 for me on a drink drive charge. So glad I decided to go with this awesome firm. Easy to work with and very professional. …”
Andrew Dometaki (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by stephen milward.
“A very helpful and professional service I received from Boorman Lawyers , I was very happy with the outcome they worked hard to get me , would highly recommend them to anyone. …”
stephen milward (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Erin Parker.
“Can not recommend Josh enough! My 4th drink driving offence without a licence and no interlock in the car and drink driving low range. I got $120 fine and 1 year suspension. He is wortg every cent. Such an amazing result. Very happy. He came highly recommended from a friend and I am so great full. Thank you Josh! …”
Erin Parker (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Jagraj Singh.
“Josh is very amazing and good sportive person . He is very friendly to chat he is very good lawyer how much I can say to him not enough I just say to thanks joshua thanks for helping me”
Jagraj Singh (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Ollie Watts.
“Joshua Boorman is an intelligent and well informed lawyer who genuinely cared about me and the situation I was in. It meant a lot to me to have Josh, Junior Counsel and Senior Counsel represent me to see my case through and get the best …”
Ollie Watts (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Tyana Hansen.
“Josh handled my Drink driving charge and delivered better than he promised. I got off extremely lightly. He was very easy to work with and quick to respond to all my ongoing questions. He made the whole process so easy and seamless and took a lot of stress off me on the day.”
Tyana Hansen (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by X T.
“Thanks for the great outcome. Very pleased with the service. Thanks Josh !”
X T (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Reginald Ledimo.
“Highly recommend Joshua. He got the best possible outcome for me in my case. He was easy to talk to and made me not worry about the case as much.”
Reginald Ledimo (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Lin ZHANG.
“Very good and professional lawyer. The outcome is much better than I expected. I strongly recommend Josh if you need any legal assistance. Very thanks, Josh😊”
Lin ZHANG (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Karen Fisher.
“Josh is amazing, he helped my son and got a fantastic outcome. Josh took all the stress out of court and everything ran like clock work. I could not recommend Josh highly enough”
Karen Fisher (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Cameron Waters.
“Josh was fantastic to deal with. He was easy to contact and communicate with. He achieved an excellent outcome and I wouldn't hesitate to contact him again should I need any more legal assistance.”
Cameron Waters (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Alan Scott.
“Big Thanks to Josh for all the help with my recent court matter . Josh made a difficult time for myself stress free with all information and advice above and beyond what I expected !!. I totally recommend Josh Boorman for any court matter you may find yourself in . Cheers mate !!”
Alan Scott (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by corey reid.
“Josh represented me for a DUI matter and with such short notice I couldn’t be more happier with the result , very helpful and highly recommend him”
corey reid (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by piotr wojcik.
“Very recommended dude... To the point and genuine... This industry can full of promises. Josh is down to earth ...”
piotr wojcik (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Charles Stewart.
“Josh represented me at Waverley court this morning and he delivered the desired result. He was professional, diligent and I felt like he really got me. …”
Charles Stewart (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Shubham modgil.
“The most professional people, provided full ongoing support, they bought me the best outcome in court,despite my very serious matter, i would highly recommend booreman lawyers for any of your matter. …”
Shubham modgil (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by kenny morgan.
“Josh represented me at my trial for a DUI charge in Sydney. I blew 0.119 being a Mid-Range offence. Josh had some of the Police material which was irrelevant to my case deleted prior to the hearing. He reviewed all my references & my letter …”
kenny morgan (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Emily Quarrell.
“Excellent. I would not hesitate to recommend Josh Boorman as a lawyer who will provide the best possible result for his clients. He has a deep understanding of law across NSW and Qld jurisdictions and goes above and beyond in extracting detailed information from his clients, and is a concise and effective advocate in court.”
Emily Quarrell (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by david thompson.
“I would highly recommend Boorman Lawyers. Josh was the perfect example as to why you should get a lawyer, right from the start he took the stress away, had all paperwork and advice needed spot on, even down to the finer details that none of …”
david thompson (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Brad Phillips.
“Boorman lawyers gave me a better out come than I ever expected I would use him any time I have a problem from now on thanks again”
Brad Phillips (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Karl Rodgers.
“Josh was a great help throughout my experience. He was thorough and informative before, during and after my trial. If needed i would definitely trust boorman lawyers again and would definitely recommend Josh for anyone in need of legal aid.”
Karl Rodgers (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Bethany Mannion.
“Josh managed to get me a section 10 for a special range DUI charged in Sydney. Being from Canberra I could always message or call him about any questions I had. Great lawyer highly recommended him !”
Bethany Mannion (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Allan Provan.
“Positive outcome, thanks josh Worked hard for a section 10 in my low range ova case”
Allan Provan (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by SJR.
“Josh is without doubt the most unpretentious, straight-up, genuine, knowledgeable solicitor I have ever dealt with. …”
SJR (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Darren Dowsett.
“As a first time low range PCA offender coupled with a speeding offence and first appearance before the court, my stress and anxiety levels were insurmountable. I engaged the help of Joshua from Boorman lawyers who represented myself in …”
Darren Dowsett (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Katie Eales.
“Joshua was a excellent lawyer who got me a section 10 for a low-range PCA. He was well prepared and helped me a lot with all my documents and gave me great advice. I highly recommend him.”
Katie Eales (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by leon bourgeon.
“Good advice, it pays to tick all the boxes and do all you can to present your best self before the court. I would recommend to friends if they find themselves in the same situation as I was. Thank you”
leon bourgeon (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by King Lit Leong.
“I have been extremely lucky to have Josh represent me in my court case. Josh is an exceptional lawyer, he is professional, patient, supportive, knowledgeable and a good listener. He was right beside me every step of the way, by providing …”
King Lit Leong (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Ross Williams.
“Great outcome and very professional. Took the weight off my shoulders. Definitely recommend.”
Ross Williams (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Jamania Harris.
“Represented me so well. Pricing is great. Made me feel very at ease! Thanks again Josh.”
Jamania Harris (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by mike purser.
“Very happy with Boorman lawyers Josh was organised and professional which lead me to get the result i was after.”
mike purser (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Garry J.
“Josh went above and beyond for me, got the best result possible of a minimum sentence for high range DUI, couldn't reccomend him highly enough”
Garry J (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Brandon Pietsch.
“Awsome I got the outcome that I wanted explained everything very well and was very helpful with everything”
Brandon Pietsch (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Key Let.
“Great person. I received the outcome he promised me. Very truthful and takes his time to explain every details. I felt relaxed over the hall ordeal. I'm loving life!”
Key Let (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Noah Southcombe.
“Josh did a great job and got the work liscense across the line - highly recommend.”
Noah Southcombe (opens full review in a new tab) - Google review by Cameron Woodvine.
“Josh boorman represented me today with a dui and drug possession charge. I got the best result i could have asked for with a no conviction or record for both charges and only one month of disqualified license with a 24/7 work license. Thank you so much josh”
Cameron Woodvine (opens full review in a new tab)
- Facebook review by Adam Webster.
“Josh was extremely professional, reliable and was able to get the best result possible. Highly recommended. 5 stars!”
Adam Webster (opens full review in a new tab) - Facebook review by Nicole Ray.
“Tegan was an absolute saviour for my business. With very little briefing she was able to turn my business processes into 6 sets of perfectly articulated terms and conditions to cover all of our needs. It has been integral in elevating my brand to a far more professional level, and I can sleep at night knowing that my agreements are legally sound. I couldn't recommend Tegan and Boorman Lawyers more highly. They are extremely professional, efficient and Tegan just understood exactly what I needed straight away and made it happen. Couldn't be happier with the service.”
Nicole Ray (opens full review in a new tab) - Facebook review by Melina Howe.
“Tegan was so helpful when filing our trademark application. She took the time to understand our business and was able to informally advise on some structuring aspects and influencer marketing tips, all of which previous lawyers I have been using failed to mention!”
Melina Howe (opens full review in a new tab) - Facebook review by Selena Evison.
“Awesome advice on the legal side of influencer marketing. Thank you Tegan🙏”
Selena Evison (opens full review in a new tab) - Facebook review by Heather Millar.
“Tegan Boorman has been our go-to commercial lawyer for my retail business, Kippins, for several years. She has helped us navigate challenging situations and always provided exceptional advice. Her knowledge of commercial law and her understanding of the needs of small businesses is second to none. Highly recommended!”
Heather Millar (opens full review in a new tab) - Facebook review by Bianca Grima.
“The best in the business 10/10”
Bianca Grima (opens full review in a new tab) - Facebook review by Chris Weston.
“Although I had a very good driving record and character references, a Section 10 can never be assumed. Josh Boorman worked with me to present a very strong case for my low range alcohol offence and I was acquitted with no fine, no suspension and no conviction. We spent a lot of time together writing and re-writing my references to get the wording perfect and also my explanation of how my offence came about. Josh has a lot of experience in this particular field and his thoroughness and presentation paid off successfully. A fixed fee agreed on before you start means you know exactly where you stand. Well done. Thanks again Josh.”
Chris Weston (opens full review in a new tab) - Facebook review by Singh Saab.
“5 stars”
Singh Saab (opens full review in a new tab) - Facebook review by Jessica Pantano.
“Josh was incredibly professional and sensitive to my traffic issue. He pushed for the best result possible and I got it! Would highly recommend for any traffic matter!”
Jessica Pantano (opens full review in a new tab) - Facebook review by Dave Thompson.
“I would highly recommend Boorman Lawyers. Josh was the perfect example as to why you should get a lawyer, right from the start he took the stress away, had all paperwork and advice needed spot on, even down to the finer details that none of us could've thought of that can effect an outcome.. Well done Josh and thank you for helping me get a positive outcome to keep my lively hood.”
Dave Thompson (opens full review in a new tab) - Facebook review by Monika Kundu.
“I was so lucky that josh was representing my case in the court .i was so terrified in the beginning but josh come up with such a absolute positive energy .i would highly recommend him to my friends and family .”
Monika Kundu (opens full review in a new tab) - Facebook review by Heidi Mcmillin.
“Simply brilliant and great to deal with. No hassle and great results.”
Heidi Mcmillin (opens full review in a new tab) - Facebook review by King Leong.
“I have been extremely lucky to have Josh represent me in my court case. Josh is an exceptional lawyer, he is professional, patient, supportive, knowledgeable and a good listener. He was right beside me every step of the way, by providing valueble advice and comforting assurance whenever I needed it. It is these qualities that truly differentiate him from the rest. My case definitely wasn't the easiest by any means. However, with Josh's skillful preparation of material and submission to the magistrate, he managed to get a great outcome for me. I highly recommend Josh to anyone who needs the best legal representation, and I can assure you won't regret it. Thank you Josh once again for your service. I hope I don't ever need your service again (touch wood), but if I do, you're the man.”
King Leong (opens full review in a new tab) - Facebook review by Andrew Ormsby.
“To any of my mates looking for lawyer that actually cares, knows his stuff and puts in 100% Joshua is the man.. You won't regret going to Joshua and you will get the best out come!”
Andrew Ormsby (opens full review in a new tab) - Facebook review by Craig Stewart.
“Thanks Joshua for the amazing outcome yesterday I'm still in a state of shock.. I would definitely recommend Boorman Lawyers to others. Can I just say Joshua is very professional in his approach in trying to achieve the desired outcome . Well prepared, briefed on the day & gave me confidence that I stood the best chance with Joshua representing me.”
Craig Stewart (opens full review in a new tab) - Facebook review by Jennifer Fernandes.
“Thanks Joshua for the good outcome. Would definitely recommend Boorman Lawyers to others. Very professional in his approach. Helped us to prepare all documents required. Also briefed us on the day. Gave us the confidence he was doing the best for us. And could see the difference between Boorman lawyers and others presenting. Will definitely recommend Boorman lawyers to others. Thanks again.”
Jennifer Fernandes (opens full review in a new tab) - Facebook review by Dan Gannon.
“A professional person in their time of indiscretion, needs a professional representation. My expectations where exceeded, with my representation by Boorman Lawyers. Especially Mr Josh Boorman. You're advice and help far surpassed the goal. You're kindness, respectfulness, and Integrity, went the extra mile, and far exceeded my expectations. I would recommend Mr Josh Boorman. For any legal matter you may have. Sincerely, Dan Gannon .”
Dan Gannon (opens full review in a new tab) - Facebook review by Jules Hannan.
“Fantastic, Boorman Lawyers - their team is extremely professional and they attend to their clients needs with courtesy and promptness. I would recommend Boorman Lawyers to anyone.”
Jules Hannan (opens full review in a new tab)
FAQs about this post
Can you get a work licence for MDMA drug driving in Queensland?
Sometimes. A charge of driving with a relevant drug present in your blood or saliva (section 79(2AA) of the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 (Qld)) can leave room for a section 87 restricted licence, often called a work licence, if the other eligibility rules are met. MDMA is one of the relevant drugs police test for. A work licence is not available where the disqualification comes from a conviction for driving under the influence of a drug (section 79(1)), and other bars apply, including a recent licence suspension or disqualification, a drink or drug driving conviction in the previous five years, and committing the offence while driving for work. Whether a work licence is possible depends on the licence held, the driving record and the exact charge.
What do you need to prove to get a section 87 work licence?
Section 87(5)(a) requires the applicant to satisfy the court that they are a fit and proper person to hold a restricted licence, having regard to the safety of other road users and the public, and that a refusal would cause extreme hardship to them or their family by depriving them of their means of earning a living. If the applicant is not self-employed, section 87(5A) requires an affidavit from the employer confirming the applicant would be deprived of their means of earning a living if the application is refused. The application is made on the approved form (Form F3181) at the sentence hearing, before the court orders the disqualification.
What are the penalties for driving with a relevant drug present in Queensland?
For an offence committed before 1 December 2026, a first offence of driving with a relevant drug present carries a maximum of 14 penalty units (about $2,417 at the current penalty unit value) or 3 months’ imprisonment, and an open-licence holder with no relevant history in the previous five years is disqualified for between 1 and 9 months. For offences committed on or after 1 December 2026, the maximum rises to 28 penalty units, a minimum fine of 7.5 penalty units applies when the court imposes only a fine and disqualification, and the minimum disqualification for an open-licence first offence rises to 2 months. Different periods apply to learner, P-plate and repeat drivers.
Can police test drivers leaving a music festival?
Yes. The Queensland Government says police can carry out random roadside saliva tests for relevant drugs, just like random breath tests, at random breath testing sites and at targeted drug testing sites. In this matter police had set up an alcohol and drug testing operation on the road out of the festival, and our client was stopped at random rather than because of the way he was driving.
Is it legal to drive the morning after taking MDMA?
The offence of driving with a relevant drug present is about whether the drug is present in saliva or blood, not whether the driver feels affected. The Queensland Government notes that detection depends on factors such as the type, quantity and quality of the drug, how often it is used and the time since it was taken, so there is no fixed safe waiting time. In this matter the MDMA was taken the night before and the positive test happened the next afternoon.
When should I speak to an Atherton DUI Lawyer about a work licence?
As early as possible after being charged. A section 87 application has to be ready for the sentence hearing, and the court will not consider one after the disqualification has been ordered. Affidavits from the applicant and the employer, and any course certificates or references, take time to organise. Early advice also allows eligibility to be checked before work goes into an application.
Sources and date checked
Sources and references for this page, checked 12 November 2026 (Brisbane time).
- Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 (Qld) ss 79, 86, 87, 88 (reprint current as at 21 September 2026; PDF checked 12 Nov 2026)
- Transport and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2026 (Qld) No. 23, s 2 and pt 10 div 3 (commencing 1 December 2026; checked 12 Nov 2026)
- Acts Interpretation Act 1954 (Qld) s 20C (changes in penalties; checked 12 Nov 2026)
- Penalties and Sentences (Penalty Unit Value) Amendment Regulation 2026 (Qld): penalty unit $172.70 from 1 July 2026
- Queensland Government – Drugs and driving (checked 12 Nov 2026)
- Queensland Government – Restricted licence (work licence) (checked 12 Nov 2026)
- Queensland Government Ministerial Media Statement – new road safety laws passed (drug driving changes from 1 December 2026)
Choose your QLD traffic law topicQLD
Guides for Queensland traffic law matters.
Enquire about legal representation
Call 1300 941 900 or make an enquiry about legal representation.
What to have ready
- Court & next listing date: Which court is on your paperwork and when your matter is listed.
- Charge or reading (if known): Tell us the charge or reading if you have it — you do not need your full police facts yet.
- Work & driving needs: Let us know if you rely on your licence for work or family responsibilities.
Real court days, NSW & QLD
Behind-the-scenes footage and case discussions from court days across New South Wales and Queensland.
Visit Boorman Lawyers TV →
Find your court
Search for your courthouse to learn more about our legal services in your area.
Charged with a drink or drug driving offence?
Talk to us about legal representation for your court date.
Call 1300 941 900